About Our Coat of Arms
The greyhound is the most popular type of dog that was used on coats of arms. It stands for courage, vigilance, and loyal fidelity. Many royals and nobles incorporated the greyhound into their coats of arms in England and France. It is used on the crests of more than 400 French families alone. Henry the VIII adopted the greyhound as his personal standard in Renaissance times, and it remains a symbol of the House of York to this day.
Supporters are figures of living creatures placed at the side or sides of an armorial shield, and appear to support it. Greyhound supporters on either side of the shield were to hold and guard it. Collars on the greyhounds signify “of the field” and the crown style of the collar signified nobility. Noble landowners were the only ones that were permitted to own greyhounds until Queen Elizabeth changed the forest laws during her reign. Animal supporters first became popular during the reign of Edward the IV.
The Shield: The purple on the shield signifies Royal majesty, sovereignty, and justice. Gold metal signifies nobility or royalty. Crests of less noble individuals would have been silver. Animals on the shield should be moving and facing to the right. A greyhound at full speed (courant) on the shield signifies coursing and speed. The Rabbit or hare signifies one who enjoys a peaceful retired life. The Hunting Horn above the shield signifies one who is fond of the chase.. The green (vert) on the horn signifies Hope, joy, and loyalty in love.
Supporters are figures of living creatures placed at the side or sides of an armorial shield, and appear to support it. Greyhound supporters on either side of the shield were to hold and guard it. Collars on the greyhounds signify “of the field” and the crown style of the collar signified nobility. Noble landowners were the only ones that were permitted to own greyhounds until Queen Elizabeth changed the forest laws during her reign. Animal supporters first became popular during the reign of Edward the IV.
The Shield: The purple on the shield signifies Royal majesty, sovereignty, and justice. Gold metal signifies nobility or royalty. Crests of less noble individuals would have been silver. Animals on the shield should be moving and facing to the right. A greyhound at full speed (courant) on the shield signifies coursing and speed. The Rabbit or hare signifies one who enjoys a peaceful retired life. The Hunting Horn above the shield signifies one who is fond of the chase.. The green (vert) on the horn signifies Hope, joy, and loyalty in love.
